Parole decision issued for suspected serial killer of babies

Genene Jones in 1984. The former pediatric nurse was suspected in the deaths of dozens of babies. She was convicted of murder in one death.

Photo By San Antonio Express-News / File photo

In this photo from 1984, Genene Jones — in the company of a deputy — arrives for her trial at the Williamson County Courthouse. Although suspected in the deaths of 40 babies, Jones was convicted in the death of just one.

Photo By Bob Thomas/UPI PHOTO

2/15/1984 Georgetown Texas, Protestors carry signs outside the WIlliamson County Courthouse, as the last phase of the Genene Jones trial begins. Jones is now deleberating.

Bexar County District Attorney Susan Reed says Genene Jones “was implicated in the deaths of 47 children, and my goodness, we cannot have someone like that free.”

Photo By Billy Calzada / San Antonio Express-News

Former Bexar County Assistant District Attorney Nick Rothe won a conviction and 60-year sentence against Genene Jones in an injury to a child case years ago.

SAN ANTONIO — Former nurse Genene Jones, in prison for killing one baby and suspected of killing dozens of others, was denied parole Thursday, officials said.

The parole board's 3-0 vote to keep Jones, 64, in prison came one day after a hearing was held.

Jones, who worked at hospitals in San Antonio and Kerrville, will not have her case reviewed again until 2018, when she is scheduled for automatic parole as required by a 1977 law meant to alleviate overcrowding in prisons.

The parole board has ruled that Jones will not be allowed to work or have contact with children once she is released. She will also be monitored electronically.

Victim advocates and District Attorney Susan Reed have said they want Jones to remain in prison for her entire life. They may try to secure a new conviction on one of the other baby deaths in which she has been implicated.